2002 Volume 13 Issue 1 Pages 55-60
A 70-year-old male was transferred to our department with a diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm with impending repture. Because his respiratory function was poor; we concluded that endovascular stent grafting was indicated. While awaiting surgery, the patient suddenly exhibited abdominal pain and hypotension, and urgent surgery was performed after diagnosis of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. There was an extensive hematoma near the inferior vena cava (IVC). Abdominal CT performed on the 8th day after the operation revealed inferior vena caval thrombotic obstruction. A Greenfield IVC filter was immediately inserted into the infrarenal segment of the IVC, and thrombolytic treatment was started. The patient was discharged 55 days after the operation, with no symptoms. Although various complications may occur after surgery for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, inferior vena caval thrombosis is a rare complication. However, because IVC thrombosis may cause pulmonary embolism and may become fatal, early diagnosis and medical treatment are important. We conclude that it is important to consider not only arterial complications but also venous complications after surgery for a reptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.
